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2015 Ford Expedition First Look

When the 2015 Lincoln Navigator was revealed two weeks ago, we knew it was only a question of time before the sheets came off its blue-oval cousin, the 2015 Ford Expedition. True to form, the changes to Ford's largest SUV largely mirror those of the Navigator. Like the Lincoln, the V-8 engine is dropped in favor of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 as standard equipment, mated to a six-speed automatic.

Those hoping for a radical, aluminum-bodied makeover like the F-150’s will have to wait a bit longer. As does the Navigator, the Expedition carries on with its predominantly steel body, and body-on-frame design and independent rear suspension. Key dimensions remain unchanged. And as you can see from these photos, the styling is not exactly what many would call a radical change. The biggest changes are a more defined, razorlike grille, and LED foglights.

The full-size SUV market isn't exactly know for taking radical risks, and customers are pretty consistent in their wants and needs for the class: ample interior room, a quiet ride, and respectable towing capability. On that last note, no official figures were announced for the 2015 Expedition, but expect them to be close to the 2014 model's 8700-9200 pounds, give or take some adjustment for the adoption of the new SAE J2807 towing standards.

Other than the EcoBoost engine, the big news for the Expedition for the new model year is the addition of a Platinum trim level, the first time the trim has been offered in an Expedition. The Platinum trim complements the carryover XLT, Limited, and King Ranch trims. The updated 2015 King Ranch model will be revealed at a later date. The Platinum model features super-premium Brunello leather, available in a red wine or black color.

Other trim changes include an available 8-inch MyFord Touch center display, standard on the Platinum trim, and optional 22-inch wheels. The 2015 Expedition will also be offered with optional selectable drive modes: comfort, normal, and sport. Facilitating this feature are the new electric power-assisted steering and adjustable suspension damping setup. Also new for 2015 on the Expedition is a Blind Spot Information System and rear cross-traffic alert. Rounding out the interior updates for 2015 are a push-button start and keyless entry system, interior ambient LED lighting and an available 10-speaker, 700-watt Sony premium audio system. Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle's on-sale date.